2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV)
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
‘The Bible is the Word of God.’ This is the declaration that scores of Christians have declared over the centuries. In writing to his young protégé Timothy, Paul reminds him the vital truth that all of Scripture is breathed out (inspired) by God. In saying this, he is asserting that the written Scriptures, here speaking of the Old Testament text, proceeds first and foremost from God. Whereas this might seem like an obvious statement for many believers, the challenge arises when skeptics raise objections to the validity of the Scriptures.
How can the Bible be the word of God when it was written by men? One of the objections reads. It is here that Peter reminds us that though the Scriptures were written by men, they did so not of their own will but rather spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:20-21). So yes, the Bible was authored by men but the ultimate author was God. Put differently, the Bible is God’s Word in human words.
Reflections
1. Do you believe that the Bible is actually the Word of God?
2. What are some of the objections that you have heard regarding the Bible’s claim to being God’s Word? How would you respond to those claims?
3. If you believe that the Bible is the Word of God, is that reflected in how you live your life?
